Dave Le Shirley is the Founder, Managing Director, and Chief Visionary Officer of Construction-Recruitment, a boutique construction, and property-focused recruitment company, with 30 years of industry experience.
Construction-Recruitment is unlike any other recruitment agency on the market because they make the process enjoyable, efficient, and engaging. They create success with their clients, and their mission is to make a positive difference for everyone involved. This recruitment agency checks all the boxes; size, agility, expertise, and results! They offer the complete package and go beyond standard service levels, offering both a 6 Star Service and a 6 Point Guarantee.
For more information visit their website here.
Here we sit down with Dave, to know a bit more about his journey as an entrepreneur.
Q. What inspired Dave to become an entrepreneur?
Dave: Whilst I enjoyed ‘success’ working for larger recruitment companies, both in Australia and the UK, I now enjoy the freedom to aim my focus not only on monthly financial targets but on creating an enjoyable and efficient service that clients and candidates alike learn to know, like and trust. Financial compensation for our service naturally follows behind the reason ‘why’ we are in business and we always aim to give more in value than we take in payment.
This has also given me the freedom to partner with Autism Swim, an organisation that addresses the disproportionate number of drowning deaths of children with ASD and other abilities compared to their neurotypical peers. This means every time we enjoy ‘Success Together”, we are helping Autism Swim to save children’s lives.
Q. How did Dave get started?
Dave: I started working in the construction industry, and when I moved into construction recruitment, I did so with a deep understanding of what people and companies need to succeed. After moving to Brisbane in 2012, I’ve been working with some of the best-known commercial builders and property developers ever since.
Q. What was your biggest startup challenge? What steps did you take to overcome it? What did you learn?
Dave: The jump from working as an employee at a high-performing agency with tools and resources at my fingertips to my own business was my biggest challenge, and also my biggest learning. It meant I had to build my own systems from scratch, find technology, suppliers, and a team that I could rely on.
The greatest benefit of that huge journey was developing a system that is efficient and effective, that isn’t clunky, and coming up with some pretty innovative systems that really work for us and that I’m really proud of. Then, taking the next step – networking and building my trusted community.
I really learned to be grateful for all the support and to accept the help that was offered to me by some pretty amazing people.
Q. What is the Most Memorable Thing did Dave Done Since you Started your Business?
Dave: Construction-Recruitment’s relationship-based business model, leadership, and distinctive collaborative culture enable us to create deep industry connections and enjoy a 100% success rate on all exclusive assignments, 100% repeat clients, and growth at 595% per annum.
We are also thrilled that so far our ‘Success Together’ social program that partners with our charity of choice, Autism Swim, has funded 6 children for surf awareness 2:1 support system, plus 25 toolkits provided to high-risk children for ‘Drowning & Wondering Prevention’, and funded 10 certifications for aquatic professionals teaching hundreds of students with disabilities.
Q. What is one book you recommend, and why?
Dave: Aha, the tried and tested ‘7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey. I’ve always been disciplined, but this was a paradigm shift for me. It helped me to focus on my values, what I wanted out of life and how I wanted to live life. Now everything I do aligns with the work I did from that book.
Q. What are your top 3 favourite online apps, tools, or resources and what do you love about them?
1. Audible – I have a busy schedule and am an avid learner, and this is my anywhere and anytime favourite.
2. Twitter – as it showcases the most recent and relevant events as things unfold;
3. What’sApp – I’m a serious communicator and my family who worldwide love this too;
Q. In terms of legacy, what is the mark you’d like to leave on the world?
Dave: I believe that we are not defined by the legacy left to us by our forefathers or the fortunes or misfortunes we experience this lifetime. If we are brave and determined, we have the opportunity to consciously choose who we want to be and how we respond to what life delivers.
I want to inspire my children and family to see the world in a positive light. To encourage them to be brave to create their own futures that they can love and enjoy. To be grateful. To know that family, inclusion, kindness, and love do make a difference. To know that I did the best I could and provided as well as I can.
I have four values that are reflected in the company: Camaraderie, Success, Trust, and Community. Underpinning everything I do is a desire to make a positive contribution to the state of the world. And – we might as well have some fun doing it!
Q. In one sentence, what’s the best advice you’d give to someone just starting out on their entrepreneurial journey?
Dave: Talk to people, every day, and consistently build your network.
To keep up to date with Dave and his journey, connect with him on Linkedin.
